Augusta Residents Voice Concerns Over QTS Data Center

Community meeting addresses environmental impact of new facility

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Residents of Augusta, Georgia gathered on February 11, 2026 to voice their concerns about the environmental impact of a new QTS data center being built in their community. The meeting was attended by local officials and representatives from QTS to discuss the project and hear feedback from concerned citizens.

Why it matters

Data centers have a significant environmental footprint due to their high energy usage and water consumption. As more tech companies build data facilities, there are growing concerns from local communities about the long-term effects on the environment and natural resources.

The details

The QTS data center is a large-scale facility that will require substantial amounts of electricity and water to operate. Residents expressed worries about the strain this could put on the local power grid and water supply, as well as the potential for increased air and noise pollution in the surrounding neighborhoods.

  • The community meeting was held on February 11, 2026.
  • Construction on the QTS data center began in late 2025.

The players

Erica Van Buren

Augusta Chronicle Climate Change Reporter who covered the community meeting.

QTS

A major data center operator that is building a new facility in Augusta, Georgia.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must ensure that the environmental impact of this data center is thoroughly evaluated and mitigated to protect our community.”

— Resident (Augusta Chronicle)

“QTS is committed to working closely with the city and residents to address any concerns and minimize the ecological footprint of our new facility.”

— QTS Representative (Augusta Chronicle)

What’s next

The city of Augusta plans to hold additional public meetings to further discuss the QTS data center project and consider potential environmental regulations or mitigation measures.

The takeaway

As data centers become more prevalent, local communities are increasingly demanding a voice in the planning and development process to ensure their environmental concerns are addressed. This meeting highlights the need for tech companies to prioritize sustainability and transparency when building new facilities.